Reverse folding umbrella

ABSTRACT

A reverse folding umbrella folds away from a user of the umbrella, thus reducing the likelihood that rain or other water on the primary fabric of the umbrella will fall onto the user while the umbrella is being folded and while the umbrella is in the closed position.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to umbrellas, and more particularly to reverse folding umbrellas and improvements thereto.

BACKGROUND

Umbrellas are well known for protecting people from rain and sun. Most umbrellas are of the forward folding type; that is, the umbrella cover folds downward (towards the umbrella handle) and around the central pole. Although this downward-folding design is sufficient for reducing the size of the umbrella for storage and otherwise when not in use, the design has several drawbacks. Specifically, water on the umbrella cover drips down onto the hand and arm of a user and onto the umbrella handle when the umbrella is folded after use in the rain. Additionally, when folding such an umbrella upon entering a vehicle, the user must remain sufficiently clear of the vehicle and vehicle door to enable the umbrella to fold downward without catching on the vehicle, which often leads to the user standing unprotected in the rain. Still further, when a downward folding umbrella is folded after use in the rain, the wet umbrella cover faces outward, such that water may be easily transferred from the wet umbrella cover to anything that touches the wet umbrella cover.

Chinese Utility Model CN 204742906 U, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, describes a reverse folding umbrella that addresses these problems by folding so that the outer cover of the umbrella faces inward once folded.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure describes several improvements to the reverse folding umbrella taught by Chinese Utility Model CN 204742906 U.

A reverse folding umbrella according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a pole having a top end and a bottom end; a handle fixedly secured to the bottom end; a cap fixedly secured to the top end, the cap having a substantially flat surface; a first hub secured adjacent the cap; a stopper positioned on the pole adjacent the first hub; a second hub slidably connected to the pole; a third hub slidably connected to the pole; a fourth hub slidably connected to the pole; a runner slidably connected to the pole and movable between a first position and a second position; and a plurality of rib assemblies. Each rib assembly comprises a first rod pivotally connected to the first hub; a second rod pivotally connected to the second hub; a third rod pivotally connected to the third hub; a biasing member pivotally connected to the fourth hub; and an end rod pivotally connected to the first rod and the third rod. The reverse folding umbrella further comprises a primary fabric extending from the cap along the first rod and the end rod; and a secondary fabric extending from proximate the runner to proximate an end of the third rod. Movement of the runner from the first position to the second position causes the plurality of rib assemblies to move from a closed position, in which the primary fabric is folded between the first rod and the end rod of each rib assembly, to an open position, in which the primary fabric is stretched across an upper surface of the first rod and the end rod of each rib assembly.

The second hub may be connected to the fourth hub, the fourth hub may be connected to the third hub, and the third hub may be connected to the runner. Movement of the runner may cause corresponding movement of the second hub, the third hub, and the fourth hub. The biasing member may store potential energy when the runner is in the first position. The biasing member may use the stored potential energy to move the runner from the first position to the second position. The biasing member may be a spring. The biasing member may also be connected to the second rod.

The second rod may comprise a channel that at least partially receives the biasing member when the runner is in the first position. The secondary fabric may comprise a plurality of vents. The end rods may terminate proximate a plane defined by the substantially flat surface of the cap when the runner is in the first position. The reverse folding umbrella may further comprise a biased pin that engages the runner when the runner is in the first position.

A reverse folding umbrella according to another embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a frame assembly comprising: a pole having a cap at one end and a handle at another end, the cap having a planar upper surface; a first hub fixedly secured to the pole adjacent the cap; a hub assembly comprising a second hub, a third hub, a fourth hub, and a runner, the hub assembly slidingly connected to the pole between the first hub and the handle; and a plurality of rib assemblies. Each rib assembly comprises: a first rod pivotally connected to the first hub; a second rod having a first end pivotally connected to the second hub and a second end pivotally connected to the first rod; a third rod having a third end pivotally connected to the third hub; a biasing member connected to the third hub and the second rod; and an end rod having a fifth end pivotally connected to the first rod, the end rod pivotally connected to a fourth end of the third rod. The reverse folding umbrella further comprises a primary fabric extending from underneath the cap to a sixth end of the end rod, the primary fabric connected to the first rod and the end rod; and a secondary fabric extending from above the runner to proximate the fourth end, the secondary fabric comprising a plurality of vents. Each rib assembly is movable between an open position in which the primary fabric is tightly stretched across the plurality of rib assemblies, and a closed position in which the plurality of rib assemblies and the primary fabric are positioned between the secondary fabric and the pole.

The hub assembly may be proximate the handle when the plurality of rib assemblies is in the closed position. The reverse folding umbrella may further comprise a stopper positioned on the pole between the first hub and the second hub. The hub assembly may be proximate the stopper when the plurality of rib assemblies is in the open position. The sixth end of each end rod may extend proximate a plane defined by the planar upper surface when the plurality of rib assemblies is in the closed position. The fifth end may be pivotally connected to the first rod via a connector. Each rib assembly may further comprise a lead member pivotally connected to the connector, the lead member having a U-shape. The reverse folding umbrella may further comprise a spring member extending between the connector and the lead member. The second rod may comprise a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the biasing member.

A free-standing umbrella according to another embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a pole having a cap with a flat surface on one end and a handle on another end; a plurality of rib assemblies secured to the pole between the cap and the handle, each rib assembly comprising a pair of upper members and a lower member, each rib assembly being adjustable between a closed position and an open position; a primary fabric secured to the pair of upper members; and a secondary fabric secured to the pair of lower members, the secondary fabric comprising a plurality of vents. When the plurality of rib assembles are in the closed position, the primary fabric is folded between each of the pairs of upper members, each of the pairs of upper members is folded between the secondary fabric and the pole, and a terminal end of one upper member of each pair of upper members extends proximate a plane defined by the flat surface.

The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or” are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C”, “at least one of A, B, or C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, “one or more of A, B, or C” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B and C together. When each one of A, B, and C in the above expressions refers to an element, such as X, Y, and Z, or class of elements, such as X₁-X_(n), Y₁-Y_(m), and Z₁-Z_(o), the phrase is intended to refer to a single element selected from X, Y, and Z, a combination of elements selected from the same class (e.g., X₁ and X₂) as well as a combination of elements selected from two or more classes (e.g., Y₁ and Z_(o)).

The term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be noted that the terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” can be used interchangeably.

The preceding is a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide an understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the disclosure and its various aspects, embodiments, and configurations. It is intended neither to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor to delineate the scope of the disclosure but to present selected concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the disclosure are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are incorporated into and form a part of the specification to illustrate several examples of the present disclosure. These drawings, together with the description, explain the principles of the disclosure. The drawings simply illustrate preferred and alternative examples of how the disclosure can be made and used and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure to only the illustrated and described examples. Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following, more detailed, description of the various aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the disclosure, as illustrated by the drawings referenced below.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the structure of a reverse folding umbrella according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a portion of the structure of a reverse folding umbrella according to the embodiment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of portions of a reverse folding umbrella according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of a reverse folding umbrella according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, showing in dashed lines structural elements of the reverse folding umbrella that are underneath the primary umbrella fabric;

FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of a reverse folding umbrella according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of a portion of the structure of a reverse folding umbrella in an unfolded position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of a portion of the structure of a reverse folding umbrella in a partially folded position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a close-up view of a portion of the structure of a reverse folding umbrella in a partially folded position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a close-up view of a portion of the structure of a reverse folding umbrella in a folded position according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of a reverse folding umbrella according to one embodiment of the present disclosure in a folded/closed position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Further, the present disclosure may use examples to illustrate one or more aspects thereof. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the use or listing of one or more examples (which may be denoted by “for example,” “by way of example,” “e.g.,” “such as,” or similar language) is not intended to and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 depicts a frame assembly 1 of a reverse folding umbrella according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The frame assembly 1 comprises a pole 11 supporting a plurality of rib assemblies 2. A handle 30 is provided on one end of the pole 11, and a cap 36 is provided on an opposite end of the pole 11. All or part of an upper surface of the cap 36 is flat. Unlike conventional umbrellas, reverse folding umbrellas according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are capable of remaining in an upright position when folded and placed upside-down (e.g., with the cap 36 facing down, so that the handle 30 is above the cap 36) on the ground. In such embodiments, the cap 36 and the tips of the folded rib assemblies 2, which surround the cap 36 when the reverse folding umbrella is in the folded position, support the weight of the reverse folding umbrella, and the tips of the folded rib assemblies 2 help to prevent the reverse folding umbrella from tipping over.

Also shown in FIG. 1 are a biased pin 32 and a runner 15 comprising a button 34. The runner 15 may comprise a grip 28 to facilitate a user sliding the runner 15 along the pole 11, particularly if the user's hand is wet (as it may be in a rainstorm). As will be described in greater detail below, the biased pin 32 is used to secure the runner 15 near the handle 30 to maintain the frame assembly 1 in the folded position when the reverse folding umbrella is not in use, and the button 34 is used to depress the biased pin 32, thus releasing the runner 15 to slide up the pole 11 and allowing the frame assembly 1 to unfold into an open position for use.

The various components of the frame assembly 1 may be comprised of various materials. For example, the pole 11 may be manufactured, for example, from a metal such as aluminum, or from a composite material such as carbon fiber. The handle 30 and the cap 36 may, for example, be manufactured from plastic, or from a composite material. In some embodiments, the handle 30 may comprise leather, foam, or fabric. The various components of the rib assemblies 2, which are described in greater detail below, may be manufactured from aluminum or another metal, from carbon fiber or another composite material, from plastic, or from wood. The foregoing discussion of materials is provided for illustration only, and is not intended to limit the present disclosure to reverse folding umbrellas made only of the components listed herein.

FIG. 2A shows a perspective view of a portion of the pole 11 together with one rib assembly 2. The pole 11 supports a first hub 12, a second hub 13, a third hub 14, and a fourth hub 40. The first hub 12 is fixedly secured to the pole 11 at or near the same end as the cap 36. In some embodiments, both the first hub 12 and the cap 36 are secured directly to the end of the pole 11, but in other embodiments only the first hub 12 is secured directly to the end of the pole 11, while the cap 36 is secured to the first hub 12. Also in some embodiments, the cap 36 and the first hub 12 are integrally formed as a single component that fits over and is fixedly secured to the end of the pole 11.

The second hub 13, third hub 14, and fourth hub 40 are slidably secured to the pole 11, and are positioned to slide together up and down the pole 11 to transition the reverse folding umbrella between the folded and unfolded positions. The third hub 14 is secured to the runner 15, either directly or with an intermediate connecting member. Connecting members 46 secure the fourth hub 40 to the third hub 14, and the second hub 13 to the fourth hub 40. Thus, the fourth hub 40 is positioned between the second hub 13 and the third hub 14. In some embodiments, the second hub 13, the third hub 14, the fourth hub 40, the runner 15, and the connecting members 46 are integrally formed as a single component. In other embodiments, at least two of the second hub 13, the third hub 14, the fourth hub 40, the runner 15, and the connecting members 46 are integrally formed as a single component, and the remaining components are formed separately. In such embodiments, as well as in embodiments where each of the second hub 13, the third hub 14, the fourth hub 40, the runner 15, and the connecting members 46 are formed separately, the separate components are secured to each other after initial manufacture thereof. The separate components may be secured together with adhesive, by fusing the components together, by fastening the components together with one or more mechanical fasteners, or in any other manner that holds the separate components together while allowing them to slide up and down the pole 11 and otherwise to function as described herein. The second hub 13, the third hub 14, the fourth hub 40, and the runner 15, and in some embodiments the connecting members 46, may be referred to as a hub assembly.

A stopper 38 is also provided on the pole 11, in between the first hub 12 and the second hub 13. The stopper 38 is sized to prevent the first hub 13 from continuing to move up the pole 11 once the frame assembly 1 has reached the fully unfolded position (as might otherwise occur, for example, during unfolding/opening of the reverse folding umbrella and/or due to a gust of wind that catches the underside of the unfolded/opened reverse folding umbrella). The stopper 38 may also comprise a shock absorber, to absorb and/or dissipate some or all of the shock of the second hub 13 impacting the stopper 38 when the frame assembly 1 is moved into the unfolded, open position. For example, the stopper 38 may be made of rubber or of a softer plastic that has some elasticity. Additionally or alternatively, the stopper 38 may be designed to compress in the axial direction under the influence of an axial force, such as would be exerted by the second hub 13 impacting the stopper 38. The stopper 38 may be fixedly secured to one or both of the pole 11 and the first hub 12. The stopper 38 and the first hub 12 may also be integrally manufactured as a single component (with or without the cap 36), or the stopper 38 may be manufactured separately from the first hub 12.

The rib assembly 2 comprises a plurality of rods, connectors, and other members to support the primary fabric 3 and secondary fabric 4 of the reverse folding umbrella and to enable the reverse folding action of the reverse folding umbrella. Embodiments of the present disclosure also comprise biasing members 42 that bias the frame assembly to the open position, so that the reverse folding umbrella unfolds automatically when the button 34 is pressed.

More particularly, the rib assembly 2 comprises a first rod 21, a second rod 44, a third rod 23, a connector 24, a lead member 25, a spring member 26, and an end rod 27. The first rod 21, second rod 44, and third rod 23 are pivotally connected with the first hub 12, the second hub 13, and the third hub 14, respectively. The pivotable connections may utilize a bolt, a pin, a tube, a rod, a bearing, or any other mechanism, component, or structure that allows the first rod 21, second rod 44, and third rod 23 to rotate relative to the first hub 12, the second hub 13, and the third hub 14, respectively. In some embodiments, the first hub 12 and third hub 14 comprise slots 12 a and 14 a, respectively, that are shaped to limit the total angle of rotation of the first rods 21 and the third rods 23, respectively. For example, as shown in FIG. 2A, the slots 12 a extend only midway up from a lower surface of the first hub 12, thus limiting the rotation of the first rods 21 in the upward direction. As also shown in FIG. 2A, the slots 14 a extend only midway down from an upper surface of the third hub 14, thus limiting the rotation of the third rods 23 in the downward direction.

An end of the first rod 21 opposite the end that is pivotally connected to the first hub 12 is secured to a connector 24. A middle portion of the connector 24 is pivotally connected to one end of the end rod 27, which one end may fit into a channel or slot in at least a portion of the connector 24 so as to align the first rod 21 and the end rod 27 (or at least adjacent ends thereof) when the rib assembly 2 is in the unfolded position. The connector 24 is also pivotally connected, at an end thereof proximate the end rod 27, to a lead member 25.

A spring member 26 is attached to the opposite end of the connector 24 (proximate the first rod 21), and to the lead member 25. The spring member 26 beneficially biases the lead member 25 and the connector 24 into positions corresponding to the unfolded, open position of the rib assembly 2.

An end of the second rod 44 opposite the end that is pivotally connected to the second hub 13 is pivotally connected to the first rod 21, so as to pivot underneath the first rod 21. The pivotal connection of the first rod 21 and the second rod 44 may be accomplished using a sleeve or bracket that is fixedly secured to one of the first rod 21 and the second rod 44, and that is pivotally connected to the other of the first rod 21 and the second rod 44. However, other means of pivotally connecting the end of one rod or tube to a section of another rod or tube may also be employed to achieve the desired pivotal connection.

The third rod 23, which as described above is pivotally connected at one end to the third hub 14, passes through the U-shaped lead member 25, and is pivotally connected at the other end to the end rod 27, so as to pivot underneath the end rod 27.

Also depicted in FIG. 2A is the fourth hub 40, and a biasing member 42 that is connected at one end to the fourth hub 40 and at the other end to the second rod 44, at a point on the second rod 44 proximate the pivotal connection between the second rod 44 and the first rod 21. The biasing member 42, which may be, for example, a spring, beneficially biases the rib assembly 2 into the unfolded, open position, as with the spring member 26. Thus, when the reverse folding umbrella is in the folded, closed position, and the button 34 is pressed to release the runner 15 from the biasing pin 32, the biasing members 42 and spring members 26 of each rib assembly 2 each exert forces on the members to which they are connected to pull the frame assembly 1 into the unfolded, open position.

FIG. 2B shows the latching mechanism that holds the reverse folding umbrella of some embodiments of the present disclosure in the folded/closed position. As shown, the biased pin 32 is biased to the extended position by a spring 52. When the reverse folding umbrella is in the closed position, the biased pin 32 extends into an opening in the runner 15 behind the button 34 (which button 34 is also biased into a default position by springs 56). When a user presses the button 34, the biased pin 32 is pushed back into the pole 11, thus releasing the runner 15 to slide up the pole 11. According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, this unfolding/opening occurs automatically once the button 34 is pressed, due to the forces exerted by the biasing members 26 and 42.

When the reverse folding umbrella is moved into the folded/closed position (e.g., by a user pulling the runner 15 along the pole 11 toward the handle 30), the wedge-shaped lower edge 54 of the runner 15 contacts the biased pin 32 and forces the biased pin 32 into the pole 11. The biased pin 32 is held in the pole 11 by the inner wall of the runner 15 as the runner 15 continues to slide down the pole 11. Once the runner 15 has slid far enough down the pole 11 to align the opening behind the button 34 with the biased pin 32, the biased pin 32 is pushed into the opening by the spring 52. The runner 15 is then prevented from sliding back up the pole 11 (despite the forces exerted by the biasing member 42 and the spring member 26) by the extended biased pin 32, which must be depressed using the button 34 in order to unfold/open the reverse folding umbrella.

Turning now to FIG. 3, the primary fabric 3 of the reverse folding umbrella may be connected to or underneath the cap 36, as well as to one or more of the first rod 21, the connector 24, and the end rod 27 of each rib assembly 2. The primary fabric 3 thus stretches over the frame assembly 1 when the rib assemblies 2 are in an unfolded/open configuration, and forms a surface that deflects rain or other falling water. The primary fabric 3 may comprise any waterproof material or other material with a low water absorption rate, such that all or at least most of the water contacting the primary fabric 3 will run off the primary fabric 3. In some embodiments, the primary fabric 3 may comprise a non-waterproof fabric, or a fabric that does not have a low water absorption rate, but that is coated with one or more compounds or chemicals that cause the primary fabric 3 to become waterproof and/or to have a low water absorption rate. The same or similar coatings may be used on a fabric that is waterproof or that does have a low water absorption rate. Also in some embodiments, the primary fabric 3 may be hydrophobic, or may be coated with a chemical or other compound having hydrophobic properties. In some embodiments, the primary fabric 3 may comprise nylon, polyester, or cotton, and the primary fabric 3 may be coated with Teflon.

FIG. 4 shows a bottom perspective view of a reverse folding umbrella according to embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in this figure, a secondary fabric 4 covers the underside of the frame assembly 1. The secondary fabric 4 may be attached, for example, to the runner 15 and/or the third hub 14. In some embodiments, the secondary fabric 4 may be held in between the runner 15 and the third hub 14. The secondary fabric 4 may also be attached or otherwise connected, for example, to the third rod 23, and in some embodiments may be attached or otherwise connected to various points along the third rod 23. The same materials and coatings described above with respect to the primary fabric 3 may be used for the primary fabric 4.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the secondary fabric 4 may comprise a plurality of vents 48 between the inner and outer perimeters thereof. Also in some embodiments, the outer perimeter of the secondary fabric 4 may not be connected to the outer perimeter of the primary fabric 3, and the secondary fabric 4 may have a shorter outer perimeter than the primary fabric 3, such that there is a space through which air can flow between the outer perimeter of the primary fabric 3 and the outer perimeter of the primary fabric 4.

The increased airflow permitted by the inclusion of the vents 48 and the space between the outer perimeters of the primary fabric 3 and the secondary fabric 4 beneficially facilitates the unfolding/opening of the reverse folding umbrella, by reducing or preventing a suction effect that might otherwise exist between the primary fabric 3 and the secondary fabric 4. In other words, the vents 48 improve the ability of the reverse folding umbrella to unfold/open, which ability would otherwise by restricted by the inability of air to flow into the expanding space between the primary fabric 3 and the secondary fabric 4 as quickly as necessary while the reverse folding umbrella is being unfolded/opened. Similarly, the increased airflow permitted by the inclusion of the vents 48 and the space between the outer perimeters of the primary fabric 3 and the secondary fabric 4 facilitates the folding/closing of the reverse folding umbrella, by allowing air to exit the space between the primary fabric 3 and the secondary fabric 4 as that space collapses during the folding/closing process.

The shape of the vents 48 may be selected based on aesthetic considerations. In some embodiments, for example, the vents 48 may be shaped and arranged in a particular aesthetically pleasing pattern. The present disclosure encompasses the use of vents 48 in the secondary fabric 4 having any shape and/or pattern.

FIGS. 5-8 show portions of the structure of the frame assembly 1 in various configurations. FIG. 5 shows two rib assemblies 2 of the reverse folding umbrella in an open, unfolded configuration, and depicts the same components described above with respect to FIG. 2A.

FIG. 6 shows a single rib assembly 2 in a partially folded/closed (or a partially unfolded/opened) position. As shown in FIG. 6, as the runner 15 is pulled or otherwise slid downward along the pole 11 toward the handle 30, the second hub 13 and the third hub 14 also slide down the pole 11. The downward movement of the second hub 13 pulls the end of the second rod 44 that is pivotally connected to the second hub 13 downward as well. As a result, the second rod 44 rotates upward toward the pole 11. Additionally, the second rod 44 pulls the end of the first rod 21 that is distal from the pole 11 downward, causing the first rod 21 to rotate downward toward the pole 11. The first rod 21 rotates around the end of the first rod 21 that is pivotally connected to the first hub 12.

The downward movement of the third hub 14 pulls the end of the third rod 23 that is pivotally connected to the third hub 14 downward. The downward movement of the third rod 23 is constrained, however, by the lead member 25, which causes the third rod 23 to pivot about the lead member 25. As the third rod 23 rotates upward, it pushes upward on the end rod 27 at the point where the end rod 27 is pivotally connected to the third rod 23, thus causing the end rod 27 to also rotate upward around the end of the end rod 27 that is pivotally connected to the connector 24.

The downward rotation of the first rod 21 causes the angle between the first rod 21 and the lead member 25 to increase, thus stretching the spring member 26. The upward rotation of the second rod 44 (combined with the downward movement of the fourth hub 40) causes the biasing member 42 to rotate upward and stretch as well. As a result, the folding/closing action of the reverse folding umbrella stores potential energy in the spring members 26 and the biasing members 42, which potential energy, when released, causes the reverse folding umbrella to unfold/open.

FIG. 7 shows a close-up view of part of a rib assembly 2 in a partially folded/closed (or partially unfolded/opened) position. As shown in FIG. 7, the second rod 44 comprises an interior slot or channel 44 a that partially receives the biasing member 42. Also shown in FIG. 7 is the connection point 50 where one end of the biasing member 42 is secured to the second rod 44.

As previously described, one end of the connecting rod 44 is pivotally connected to the first rod 21. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7, the pivotal connection is achieved using a sleeve 58, which is secured to the first rod 21 and comprises an extension to which the end of the second rod 44 is pivotally connected. Also shown in FIG. 7 are the connector 24, which is pivotally connected at a midpoint thereof to the end rod 27; the lead member 25, which is pivotally connected to an end of the connector 24, and through which the third rod 23 passes; and the spring member 26, which is connected to one end of the connector 24 and to the lead member 25, so as to expand as the angle between the connector 24 and the lead member 25 increases.

FIG. 8 shows a rib assembly 2 in the folded/closed position, with the runner 15, the third hub 14, the fourth hub 40, and the second hub 13 positioned proximate the handle 30. The first rod 21 has rotated downward toward the pole 11, while the end rod 27, the second rod 44, and the third rod 23 have all rotated upward toward the pole 11. In this configuration, the free end of the third rod 23 extends to approximately the same plane as the cap 36. As a result, the reverse folding umbrella can be inverted (e.g. with the cap 36 facing the ground or floor) and set down on the ground or floor, and will remain standing in that position.

FIG. 9 shows a reverse folding umbrella according to embodiments of the present disclosure in a free-standing position, in which the umbrella is resting on the cap 36 (not visible in FIG. 9) and is prevented by the tips 60 of the end rod 27 from falling over. The tips 60 extend proximate a plane defined by a flat surface of the cap 36, such that the cap 36 can touch the ground while one or more of the tips 60 either contact the ground also or are in a position to contact the ground, and thus to stabilize the umbrella, if the umbrella tips slightly. Also illustrated in FIG. 9 is the secondary fabric 4 facing outward, with small/insignificant portions of the primary fabric 3 visible. Most of the primary fabric 3 is folded between the first rod 21 and the end rod 27, which in turn are folded between the pole 11 and the secondary fabric 4. The vents 48 are also shown in FIG. 9, as is the handle 30 and a runner 15 comprising a button 34 and a grip 28.

When the reverse folded umbrella is in the folded/closed position, the primary fabric 3 (which primary fabric 3 would be wet if the reverse folding umbrella had just been used in a rainstorm, for example) is folded between the first rod 21 and the end rod 27. The secondary fabric 4, however (which would be dry or mostly dry even if the reverse folding umbrella had just been used in a rainstorm, for example) surrounds the pole 11 and the rib assemblies 2 and faces outward when the reverse folding umbrella is in the folded or closed position. As a result, water that has collected on the primary fabric 3 or is running off of the primary fabric 3 as the reverse folding umbrella is being folded/closed will not run off onto the user or the user's clothes or onto the umbrella handle 30, but will instead be caught in the folded primary fabric 3. Such water may only drain from the primary fabric 3 when the reverse folding umbrella is inverted, which can be done in a manner that avoids wetting the user and the handle 30.

Additionally, because the reverse folding umbrella according to embodiments of the present disclosure folds away from the user rather than toward the user, the reverse folding umbrella can easily be folded as the user is entering a vehicle or after the user has entered a vehicle or other enclosed space. As a result, in contrast to conventional umbrellas, the user can fold the reverse folding umbrella without being exposed to the elements.

Further, the reverse folding umbrella, when folded, positions the dry secondary fabric on the outside of the umbrella, such that a person or object can touch the exposed portions of the umbrella without getting wet.

Still further, the reverse folding umbrella according to embodiments of the present disclosure is beneficially capable of supporting itself in a standing position when placed on the cap 36, which negates the need for a bin or other container for holding the reverse folding umbrella for storage, and for leaning the reverse folding umbrella against a wall or other surface when a container is not available. Still further, the ability of the reverse folding umbrella to remain in the standing position facilitates the drip-drying of the primary fabric 3, by maintaining the umbrella in an orientation from which gravity exerts a downward force on any water droplets on the primary fabric 3, thus causing such water droplets to drip down and off of the primary fabric 3.

Yet another benefit of the reverse folding umbrella according to embodiments of the present disclosure is the ability of the reverse folding umbrella to open automatically, due to the inclusion of the biasing members 42 and 26. Still another benefit of the reverse folding umbrella described herein is the ability of the reverse folding umbrella to remain locked in the folded/closed position due to the interaction of the biased pin 32 with the runner 15.

In yet another benefit of the reverse folding umbrella according to embodiments of the present disclosure, the air vents 48 facilitate the air drying of the interior space between the primary fabric 3 and the secondary fabric 4. Although this interior space is not directly exposed to falling rain due to the primary fabric 3, it is likely that moisture will collect in the interior space at least on occasion, and the vents 48 will facilitate the flow of air through the interior space and thus the evaporation or other removal of such moisture.

A number of variations and modifications of the foregoing disclosure can be used. It would be possible to provide for some features of the disclosure without providing others.

Although the present disclosure describes components and functions implemented in the aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations with reference to particular standards and protocols, the aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations are not limited to such standards and protocols. Other similar standards and protocols not mentioned herein are in existence and are considered to be included in the present disclosure. Moreover, the standards and protocols mentioned herein and other similar standards and protocols not mentioned herein are periodically superseded by faster or more effective equivalents having essentially the same functions. Such replacement standards and protocols having the same functions are considered equivalents included in the present disclosure.

The present disclosure, in various aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations, includes components, methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus substantially as depicted and described herein, including various aspects, embodiments, configurations embodiments, subcombinations, and/or subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how to make and use the disclosed aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations after understanding the present disclosure.

The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description, for example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The features of the aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations of the disclosure may be combined in alternate aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations other than those discussed above. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claims require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed aspect, embodiment, and/or configuration. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the disclosure.

Moreover, though the description has included description of one or more aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations and certain variations and modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within the scope of the disclosure, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights which include alternative aspects, embodiments, and/or configurations to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter. 

1. A reverse folding umbrella, comprising: a pole having a top end and a bottom end; a handle fixedly secured to the bottom end; a cap fixedly secured to the top end, the cap having a substantially flat surface; a first hub secured adjacent the cap; a stopper positioned on the pole adjacent the first hub; a second hub slidably connected to the pole; a third hub slidably connected to the pole; a fourth hub slidably connected to the pole; a runner slidably connected to the pole and movable between a first position and a second position; a plurality of rib assemblies, each rib assembly comprising: a first rod pivotally connected to the first hub; a second rod pivotally connected to the second hub; a third rod pivotally connected to the third hub; a biasing member pivotally connected to the fourth hub; and an end rod pivotally connected to the first rod and the third rod; a primary fabric extending from underneath the cap along the first rod and the end rod; and a secondary fabric extending from proximate the runner to proximate an end of the third rod; wherein movement of the runner from the first position to the second position causes the plurality of rib assemblies to move from a closed position, in which the primary fabric is folded between the first rod and the end rod of each rib assembly, to an open position, in which the primary fabric is stretched across an upper surface of the first rod and the end rod of each rib assembly.
 2. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 1, wherein the second hub is connected to the fourth hub, the fourth hub is connected to the third hub, and the third hub is connected to the runner, and further wherein movement of the runner causes corresponding movement of the second hub, the third hub, and the fourth hub.
 3. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 1, wherein the biasing member stores potential energy when the runner is in the first position.
 4. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 3, wherein the biasing member uses the stored potential energy to move the runner from the first position to the second position.
 5. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 1, wherein the biasing member is a spring.
 6. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 1, wherein the biasing member is also connected to the second rod.
 7. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 6, wherein the second rod comprises a channel that at least partially receives the biasing member when the runner is in the first position.
 8. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 1, wherein the secondary fabric comprises a plurality of vents.
 9. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 1, wherein the end rods terminate proximate a plane defined by the substantially flat surface of the cap when the runner is in the first position.
 10. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 1, further comprising a biased pin that engages the runner when the runner is in the first position.
 11. A reverse folding umbrella, comprising: a frame assembly comprising: a pole having a cap at one end and a handle at another end, the cap having a planar upper surface; a first hub fixedly secured to the pole adjacent the cap; a hub assembly comprising a second hub, a third hub, a fourth hub, and a runner, the hub assembly slidingly connected to the pole between the first hub and the handle; and a plurality of rib assemblies, each rib assembly comprising: a first rod pivotally connected to the first hub; a second rod having a first end pivotally connected to the second hub and a second end pivotally connected to the first rod; a third rod having a third end pivotally connected to the third hub; a biasing member connected to the third hub and the second rod; and an end rod having a fifth end pivotally connected to the first rod, the end rod pivotally connected to a fourth end of the third rod; a primary fabric extending from underneath the cap to a sixth end of the end rod, the primary fabric connected to the first rod and the end rod; a secondary fabric extending from above the runner to proximate the fourth end, the secondary fabric comprising a plurality of vents; wherein each rib assembly is movable between an open position in which the primary fabric is tightly stretched across the plurality of rib assemblies, and a closed position in which the plurality of rib assemblies and the primary fabric are positioned between the secondary fabric and the pole.
 12. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 11, wherein the hub assembly is proximate the handle when the plurality of rib assemblies is in the closed position.
 13. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 11, further comprising a stopper positioned on the pole between the first hub and the second hub.
 14. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 13, wherein the hub assembly is proximate the stopper when the plurality of rib assemblies is in the open position.
 15. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 11, wherein the sixth end of each end rod extends proximate a plane defined by the planar upper surface when each of the plurality of rib assemblies is in the closed position.
 16. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 11, wherein the fifth end is pivotally connected to the first rod via a connector.
 17. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 16, wherein each rib assembly further comprises: a lead member pivotally connected to the connector, the lead member having a U-shape.
 18. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 17, further comprising a spring member extending between the connector and the lead member.
 19. The reverse folding umbrella of claim 11, wherein the second rod comprises a slot configured to receive at least a portion of the biasing member.
 20. A free-standing umbrella comprising: a pole having a top end and a bottom end, a cap with a flat surface secured to the top end and a handle secured to the bottom end; a plurality of rib assemblies secured to the pole between the cap and the handle, each rib assembly comprising a pair of upper members and a lower member, each rib assembly being adjustable between a closed position and an open position; a primary fabric extending from underneath the cap and secured to the pair of upper members; and a secondary fabric secured to the lower member of each of the plurality of rib assemblies, the secondary fabric comprising a plurality of vents; wherein when the plurality of rib assembles are in the closed position, the primary fabric is folded between each of the pairs of upper members, each of the pairs of upper members is folded between the secondary fabric and the pole, and a terminal end of one upper member of each pair of upper members extends proximate a plane defined by the flat surface. 